Sun shines on ninth solar farm for the Western Downs

Well and truly on its way to becoming the Energy Capital of Australia, the Western Downs is set to welcome its ninth solar farm to the region with Council approving a 240MW renewable energy development 42km west of Dalby.

The APA Group Beelbee Solar Farm project, located on Beelbee Road, will complement the Darling Downs Solar Farm, currently under construction along Grahams Road, Kogan;

It’s expected to produce between 150MW and 240MW of power into the national electricity grid and has the potential for battery storage of up to 100MW;

The project is expected to employ up to 450 workers during peak construction, and support up to six full time operational staff.

Western Downs Regional Council Deputy Mayor Andrew Smith said the Beelbee Solar Farm project marks the third renewable energy development approved by Council in less than two months.

“What a month it’s been, and I’m told there’s even more development applications in the pipeline!” he said.

“We’re pleased to once again be working with APA Group to bring their second solar farm to the Western Downs.

“Complementing their Darling Downs Solar Farm, their commitment to bring another renewable energy project to our region highlights the Western Downs’ economic strength and impressive portfolio on the solar energy scene.

“This return investment is a win for our communities with the project set to bring a further 450 jobs to the Western Downs during construction, and APA have already expressed desire to work with local contractors and businesses where ever possible.

“Our Planning and Development Assessment Team have established a reputation for fast application turnaround times, approving this latest development in less than six weeks. This responsive approach shows everyone that the Western Downs is well and truly open for business.”